Our Story – the First 14 Years
Counselling and Psychotherapy for Adults: Towards the Centre
Therapy in Manchester provides short- and long-term counselling and psychotherapy for adults in the heart of the city.
I established Therapy in Manchester in 2011 and, for eight years, worked from the vibrant community of Chorlton in south Manchester, growing and developing the practice.
In 2019, I relocated to the Royal Exchange Building in Manchester’s city centre—also home to the famous Royal Exchange Theatre.
This move allowed me to expand Therapy in Manchester and better serve the therapy needs of adults living or working in the city.
Becoming a Therapist

Art Historian Paul Melia by David Hockney, 2002; Therapist Paul Melia by Peter Gill, 2018
My journey into therapy began as a client in 2002. My experiences during this time led me to retrain as a therapist in 2008, following a successful 20-year career in the arts.
Before becoming a therapist, I worked in academia, collaborating with artists like David Hockney and Peter Greenaway. These experiences enriched my perspective and went on to inform my therapeutic practice today.
Towards Experience
I began working as a psychotherapist in 2010 and now have over a decade of experience working with a wide range of symptoms and mental health diagnoses.
My background includes two years as a counsellor for a leading healthcare provider and two years as a therapist for a Manchester-based charity.
After qualifying, I pursued ongoing training in the psychoanalysis of Freud and Lacan, enabling me to also practice as a psychoanalytic psychotherapist.
Investing in our Professional Community
My colleagues play a vital role in my continuing professional development. I am actively involved in the region’s network of therapists and have contributed to the community in several ways, not least:
For a decade, I programmed monthly events for the North West Regional Psychotherapy Association (NWRPA), eventually serving as Chair.
For five years, I facilitated reading groups for therapists, exploring a range of topics relevant to our clinical work.
Moving Forward
As I look ahead to a second decade of providing therapy in Manchester, I remain committed to offering high-quality counselling and psychotherapy for adults.
Whatever your reason for choosing my service you can have confidence that at Therapy in Manchester you will work with a qualified and experienced therapist committed to their ongoing professional development
Therapy begins by making your first appointment – find out more here
Note
This blog was updated in 2025 to reflect 14 years of Therapy in Manchester.